Ethics Commission

As confirmed during the Olympic Summit held at the IOC Headquarters in November 2013, ensuring respect for the principles of good governance and ethics is an ongoing struggle.

“We cannot expect others to adhere to high ethical standards if we do not do so ourselves. We cannot expect proper conduct on the field of play if we do not have good governance within the Olympic Family.” (Jacques Rogge, Congress Opening Ceremony Speech, XIII Olympic Congress Copenhagen 2009: Proceedings, p. 16).

“[…] we should go a step further in order to ensure that the ethical principles enshrined in the Olympic Charter are respected by sports organisations at all levels and that they are all committed to the principles of good governance.” (Thomas Bach, “Unity in Diversity – Respect, Responsibility, Reliability”, XIII Olympic Congress Copenhagen 2009: Proceedings, p. 110)

Good governance is part of the Fundamental Principles of Olympism. It serves to get the respect and confidence of all partners.

The article C1 of the Code of ethics mentions that “The Basic Universal Principles of Good Governance of the Olymipc and Sports Movement, in particular transparency, responsibility and accountability, must be respected by all Olympic constituents”.

Transparency of the Rules: clear texts must exist and be accessible and circulated. Financial transparency, in particular financial commitments, tender process, disclosure of financial information, accounts in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, audit by a qualified, independent entity.